Introduction
My name is John and I have worked in the crime scene cleanup industry for over 10 years. In this article, I will provide an in-depth look at what is involved in cleaning up after a traumatic event such as a homicide, suicide, or unattended death.
Crime scene cleanup is an extremely difficult job, both emotionally and physically. However, it is a necessary service that helps families move forward after experiencing an unexpected tragedy. My goal is to explain the intricacies of this profession to help readers understand the realities of this work.
What Happens at a Crime Scene?
When a death occurs, there are specific protocols that legally must be followed depending on the circumstances. If the death is considered suspicious, the police will secure the area and perform an investigation to determine if foul play was involved. Evidence is collected, photos are taken, and the medical examiner retrieves the body.
Once the investigation is complete, the police department will release the property back to the lawful owner or representative. At this point, only the basic investigation is concluded – the location is still considered a biohazard site that requires professional cleaning.
Why Professional Cleaning is Required
Crime scene cleanup technicians are trained and certified to safely remediate biohazard materials. We wear hazmat suits and utilize industrial-grade disinfectants to sanitize affected areas.
Some of the potentially hazardous contaminants we commonly encounter at death scenes include:
- Blood and bodily fluids
- Chemicals and gases
- Medical waste
- Methamphetamine residues
Improper cleaning can further endanger the health of families and contaminate the home. There are strict regulations in place to ensure these risks are mitigated by licensed companies.
Initial Response Process
Once a death has occurred and the premises are released, the family will contact a crime scene cleaning company. An initial response team is deployed immediately to secure and evaluate the site.
Our First Priorities Include:
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Conducting air quality tests – We test for dangerous VOCs that can permeate soft materials such as drywall and fabrics. Air scrubbers are placed to filter the air.
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Documenting the extent of contamination – We assess all affected areas and building materials to determine cleanup protocols. This includes using detection devices to find blood that is not visible.
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Establishing containment barriers – The work area is sealed off with protective coverings to prevent cross-contamination.
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Removing and disposing of heavily saturated materials – Items that are too saturated with hazardous fluids are legally required to be properly disposed of.
Once the site is secured, the full remediation process can begin.
The Crime Scene Cleaning Process
Cleaning a location after a traumatic death requires extensive decontamination protocols based on industry standards. On average, it takes 2-3 days for a full cleanup of an average home.
Step 1: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Technicians wear multiple layers of protective coverings, including:
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Respirator mask – Protects the airway from dangerous particulates
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Splash goggles – Prevent fluids from contacting eyes
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Full body suit – Covers skin to avoid contamination
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Gloves and boot covers – Allows safe movement around scene
Donning PPE properly ensures we remain safe while rendering an environment harmless.
Step 2: Remove Contaminated Materials
Any materials that are saturated beyond salvage are legally required to be disposed of properly. This includes:
- Mattresses, carpeting, and upholstered furniture
- Drywall and insulation with fluid seepage
- Personal items directly affected
We remove these materials safely wearing PPE suits and following hazardous waste transport regulations. Hard surfaces like flooring are left in place for cleaning.
Step 3: Apply Disinfectant to Surfaces
Industrial-grade chemicals specifically designed for biohazard remediation are applied evenly across all hard surfaces. Typical agents used include:
- Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) – Removes stains and disinfects
- Hydrogen peroxide – Breaks down blood cells
- Quaternary ammonium – Disinfectant effective on bodily fluids
Chemicals are left to dwell so they can fully disinfect before being rinsed away.
Step 4: Detailed Cleaning
After the dwell time, we use the following techniques to remove all remaining traces:
- Scrubbing with brushes – Helps agitate and lift stains
- Rinsing thoroughly – Flushing completely removes residues
- Odor elimination – Specialized machines and chemicals absorb persisting odors
The goal is to return the environment to a neutral state of cleanliness and habitability.
Restoration Services
Once the biohazard remediation is complete, we provide optional restoration services. This allows us to return the property to a livable condition.
- Reconstruction – We repair or replace flooring, drywall, etc
- Painting – A fresh coat covers stains that bleed through
- Content cleaning – Any remaining personal belongings are deep cleaned
Restoration services help eliminate reminders of the tragedy. We work with insurance companies to facilitate any claims.
Why Choose a Professional Crime Scene Cleanup Company?
Attempting crime scene or traumatic death cleanup yourself can have serious health consequences. Leave this difficult process to trained, dedicated professionals.
Here are the top reasons to hire an established provider:
- Safe – We maintain strict safety protocols to protect customers and technicians
- Compliant – Our processes adhere to all government regulations
- Discreet – We are highly respectful of families during this difficult time
- Efficient – We respond immediately and complete cleanup promptly
- Insured – We assume all liability for our single-use equipment and technicians
No family should have to take this burden on alone. Trust in a professional crime scene cleaning company to remediate properly.
Conclusion
Dealing with the aftermath of an unexpected death is extremely hard. Crime scene cleanup technicians approach this work with compassion, respect, and professionalism. Our goal is to quickly restore safety and sanity so families can begin grieving and healing.
If you or a loved one ever experience the tragedy of an unattended death, homicide, or suicide, immediately call a professional crime scene cleaning company. We will handle the entire process discreetly, properly, and efficiently so you can focus on what matters most – finding closure.
